Brigiding’s recent victory in Episode 9 of ‘Drag Race Philippines: Slaysian Royale’ marks a significant milestone in her competitive journey, earning her a third RuBadge.
This accomplishment not only reinforces her standing as a formidable contender but also secures her place among the season’s Top 4 finalists, positioning her as a strong candidate for the crown. Her consistent performance, emotional depth, and commanding presence have distinguished her as one of the most compelling queens of the season.
“Ayon, nanghihina ako, pero sobrang saya,” Brigiding shared, reflecting on her third RuBadge. “Iba ‘yung feeling nang nagsu-shoot at iba rin ‘yung feeling nang pinapanood mo na siya… watching it again, and with the audience cheering for you and rooting for you, ibang level din ‘yung happiness.”
For Brigiding, the badges weren’t the goal—they were the byproduct of a deeper intention.
“Gusto ko lang talaga eh bumalik, gumawa ng magandang memory, at mag-enjoy.”
This season marks a dramatic evolution for Brigiding, who first appeared in Season 1 with a different mindset.
“Noong Season 1, lagi akong, ‘kailangan ako ang pinakamagaling…’ without acknowledging my weaknesses and flaws,” she admitted.
But Slaysian Royale brought out a more grounded and introspective version of the queen.
“Mas naging honest ako, mas naging authentic ako, mas tinanggap ko ang mga flaws ko,” she said, crediting her growth to newfound self-awareness and maturity.
From Episode 1 to 9, Brigiding’s journey seemed smooth on the surface—but internally, it was anything but.
“Ang challenging sa akin ay ‘yung tanggapin sa sarili mo na ito ‘yung brand new version mo,” she revealed.
Letting go of old habits and embracing a reinvented self required both courage and vulnerability.
“Pinipinch ko pa rin ang sarili ko na, ‘Girl, I’m in the Top 4, andoon ako sa finale, I’m a frontrunner.’ Grabe, nakakaloka.”
Indeed, Brigiding isn’t just in the Top 4—she’s a frontrunner. That realization hit her like a thunderbolt.
“Lokang-loka ako noon! ‘What? Ako?’” she laughed.
But with the excitement came responsibility.
“It’s a good feeling, but it’s also a very big responsibility, and I take it seriously.”
Brigiding sees her platform not just as a personal victory, but as a beacon for others.
“Hindi ako naging madamot sa kwento ko… ginamit ko siyang motivation for people to find themselves in me.”
Her preparation for this season was nothing short of spiritual.
“Nag-introspect talaga ako… binalikan ko nang lahat ‘yun,” she said, referring to her 12 years in drag and the emotional highs and lows of her life.
This deep dive into her identity helped her rediscover her brand and purpose.
“Doon ako na-remind kung sino ba talaga ako.”
As part of the iconic Divine Divas, Brigiding has already proven her ability to shine in a group. But she’s open to new collaborations.
“Oo naman… kung may chance to tour and join that group, why not?” she said enthusiastically, hinting at exciting possibilities beyond the competition.
With three RuBadges, a transformative journey, and a spot in the finale, Brigiding stands on the brink of Slaysian Royalty. Whether she takes home the crown or not, her story is already a triumph—a testament to authenticity, resilience, and the power of self-belief.
And if her own words are any indication, Brigiding isn’t just ready to win—she’s ready to inspire.
